Tomatoes come in the nightshade family of vegetables, which explains that the plants have some elements that are harmful to few animals, which also includes Solanine. Solanine is a substance present in the stems and leaves of the tomato, and it is dangerous for dogs. Dog owners are often concerned about their pet’s nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are among those foods which can be served once in a while as a treat. Most dogs can eat whatever their owner serves them.
It has been observed that since tomatoes have tomatine hence they can be life-threatening for dogs. If you are giving tomatoes to your pet dog, make sure the leaves and stem should be taken off beforehand. This is because the leaf and stem of unripe tomatoes contain a harmful chemical named Solanine which if ingested may result in death. They could be given either when ripened completely.
If your dog has eaten raw tomatoes, some of the following indications can be seen.
- Inability to coordinate with involuntary muscles.
- Muscular infirmity
- Mal functioning stomach
- Trembling body
Therefore, it is very important for all of those who have dogs as their pets to keep their pets away from unripe tomatoes which can cause serious health issues to them or might be fatal. People who grow tomatoes within their own gardens need to be extra vigilant as their pet dogs can access the area where tomatoes are growing and hence can eat unripe tomatoes which will eventually cause damage to their health. If mistakenly your dog swallows’ raw tomatoes, it should be rushed to the vet for quick medication. As an adult, we should take care of these little things and should take adequate preventive measures to avoid our pet dogs to go through such accidents. Whenever serving tomatoes make sure to wash it properly and cut it into small pieces.
Can Dogs eat Tomatoes?
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Yes! Dogs can eat tomatoes. However, you should always give your dogs small quantities of ripe and red tomatoes, which are free of stems and leaves. While tomatoes are non-toxic, you should avoid feeding tomatoes in large amounts to your dogs because they can cause an upset stomach. Tomatoes are acidic, which are a problem for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Cooked Tomatoes and Tomato Pomace:
Just like the ripe tomatoes, cooked Tomatoes are also safe for dogs. The main ingredient is the tomato pomace in dog foods. It is made from crushing the ripe tomato fruit, which has the skin, pulp, and the seed.
Are Tomatoes Safe for Dogs?
Fully ripe tomatoes are safe for your Dogs, whereas green and unripe tomatoes are not a good idea. As a matter of fact, tomato pomace is the key ingredient in dog food. It is essential to note here that the tomatoes contain a toxic compound which is called Tomatine. It is mostly present in leaves and stems of tomato plants as well as in green tomatoes. Some dogs may also be allergic to tomatoes and might show symptoms of it. In that case, consult your veterinarian if your dog reacts abnormally.
What are the Allergic Reactions of Tomatoes in Dogs?
The allergic reaction to tomatoes appears as coughing, sneezing, swelling, hives, breathing difficulties, or any other abnormal symptoms. In case of any such situation, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
Are Tomatoes Healthy for Dogs?
Tomatoes are low in calories, they also contain fiber and a wide range of nutrients. They contain Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Folate, Potassium, Chromium, Beta- Carotene, and Lycopene. These nutrients are very beneficial for dogs.
Are Tomatoes Good For Dogs?
They are suitable for dogs if they are served moderately. Tomatoes being low calorie and high fiber is good for digestion. Tomatoes also contain Lycopene, which helps in reducing the chances of cardio diseases and helps in promoting healthy bones. Beta-carotene improves cognition, and Vitamin A helps with eyesight, and Vitamin C is good for the skin. Whereas, minerals like Folate and Potassium are useful in maintaining blood pressure and muscular health.
Can Tomatoes be Bad for Dogs?
Tomatoes are not bad for the dogs, except the green parts of the tomatoes, which includes stems and vines. They contain Solanine, which is toxic. Small amounts of Solanine won’t harm dogs, whereas, when overeaten can cause problems.
What are the symptoms of Tomato Poisoning?
The most common symptom is Gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, vomiting, confusion, drowsiness, abnormal heart rate, and many others. If you observe any of these tomato poisonings symptoms in your dog, you should go to your vet right away.
What Tomato Products should not be given to dogs?
Products that contain tomatoes, such as soups, sauces, or juices, are not healthy for the dogs. Because they have salt, artificial flavors, sugar, and other ingredients that can be harmful to dogs, you can make your products, so you know what you have added in them.
How many Tomatoes can a Dog eat?
Tomatoes should be served in moderation and as a treat for your dogs. However, it is necessary to keep your dogs away from the green parts of the tomato plant. Some essential points to keep in mind are listed below.
- The gardening area should be fenced off. If you have a tomato plant in your garden, then make sure you have fences around them, and your dog stays out of it. It is because dogs eat unripe tomatoes, and this is a risk of ingesting Solanine, which can lead to tomatine poisoning.
- You should adequately prepare tomatoes. And also remove all the green parts, before feeding your dog. When making any recipe, make sure to slice them properly so that it would be easier for your dog to eat.
- You should always feed in moderation. Don’t let your dog eat too many tomatoes. As tomatoes are delicious and nutritious for them, but make sure you control your dog’s cravings.
Are there any Health Benefits of Tomatoes to Dogs?
As we know that tomatoes are not poisonous to dogs, and to be concerned about its benefits is a natural thing. Tomatoes can be significantly right for your dogs; that is why many pet food manufacturing companies use them in their pet foods. Whereas Tomatoes have many soluble and insoluble fiber, the pomace form has a high amount of fiber than the whole fruit as the liquid is strained from the pomace, which leaves the fibrous part of the fruit behind.
Fiber is healthy as it supports healthy digestion and also helps in maintaining your dog’s blood sugar levels. Tomatoes also contain antioxidants and numerous minerals, which are essential for your dog. The amount of the nutrients in tomato and tomato pomace will entirely depend on the quality of the tomato fruit.
So, the answer to the question, can dog eat tomatoes? It is both a yes and a no at the same time. As tomatoes are healthy and nutritious, they should be fed to your dog once in a while, and Ripe Tomatoes are non-toxic to dogs which can be fed in moderation and occasionally. In contrast, unripe tomatoes and tomato plants should be kept away. Tomatine Poisoning is rare in dogs and does not makes your dog fatal. It is the right idea to keep tomatoes as a treat so that your dog’s health can remain safe. And you should always take an okay from your veterinarian before introducing any food to your dogs. Your furry friends can enjoy this fruit as well as you do, but keep in mind the precautions to take. Read more if your dog can eat grapes?